Gene Crozat, Founder of Santa Rosa-Based G&C Auto Body, Dies at 72

Written by Paul Payne, The Press Democrat

Gene Crozat, the colorful founder of a Santa Rosa-based auto body empire who waged long-running battles with state and local officials, including one over a parking ticket that spawned a popular philanthropic mission — feeding parking meters for holiday shoppers — died November 23 at the age of 72.

Crozat opened G&C Auto Body with a partner in 1972 and built it into a recognized North Bay brand, in part through ubiquitous radio advertising featuring his own folksy pitches.

His success allowed him to construct a lavish, hotel-like headquarters near Corby Avenue’s Auto Row. Over five decades, he expanded the family business to 11 locations in four counties with more than 200 employees.